Farmers in Nagaland have received user authorization for two agricultural products, Naga tree tomato and Naga cucumber, allowing them to use Geographical Indication (GI) for these items.
The certificates were presented to approximately 250 growers during a GI awareness seminar-cum-exhibition held in Nagaland, organized by the North Eastern Regional Agricultural Marketing Corporation (NERAMAC) under the Union Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER).
The Naga tree tomato, known for its small oval shape and delightful taste, is commonly cultivated in kitchen gardens and orchards throughout the northeastern state. These tomatoes have a long shelf life when stored under normal temperatures. On the other hand, the Nagaland cucumber, grown organically, is juicy, soft, and sweet.
Geographical Indication is a label that identifies agricultural, natural, manufactured, handicraft, and industrial products originating from a specific geographical region. The GI certification acknowledges the unique qualities and characteristics of these products, attributing them to the geographical area in which they are produced.
NERAMAC, over the years, has been actively involved in supporting the certification of various agri-horticultural products in the northeast region. Currently, they have facilitated the GI certification for 13 products from eight different states.
These include Karbi Anglong ginger, Tezpur litchi from Assam, Arunachal orange, Chak Hao (Black Rice) and Kachai lemon from Manipur, Memang Nareng and Khasi Mandarin from Meghalaya, Dalle Khursani and Large cardamom from Sikkim, and Queen pineapple from Tripura.
By receiving user authorization, farmers can now use the GI symbol and certification on their products. This will provide them with a distinct identity in the market and enable them to command better returns for their produce.
The recognition and protection of these agricultural products under the GI system will not only benefit the farmers but also contribute to the preservation and promotion of the rich agri-horticultural diversity of the northeastern region.
